STAFF
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Gesualdi assumes roles as an educator, mother, and champion for children with special needs. She holds certification as a Georgia Educator and boasts a postgraduate qualification in special education. Her expertise lies in tailoring curricula to suit diverse learning styles, implementing behavior modification strategies, and fostering vocational proficiencies for students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Mrs. Haley Clement, Vice Principal Middle/High School
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Haley graduated from The University of Georgia with a degree in special education adapted curriculum. After graduation, she accepted a job with Gwinnett County Public Schools as a Special Education Teacher, specifically in a classroom for students with autism. After 3 years, she decided to explore options outside of education but ultimately felt the desire to return to the classroom this year at New Heights Academy. She loves traveling with her husband and dog in her free time and relaxing in the North Georgia mountains. She is excited to work for an organization with the student's best interests at heart, NHA.
Mrs. Emily Blackwell, Vice Principal Elementary
Mrs. Vivian Gesualdi M.Ed., Head of School
Mrs. Emily Blackwell, Vice Principal Elementary
I proudly serve as an educator at New Heights Academy. My academic foundation includes a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of North Georgia. Before my teaching role, I dedicated my skills as a Registered Behavior Technician, focusing on assisting children with Autism. During my leisure moments, I relish the company of my loved ones—friends and family alike. The joy of companionship extends to my cherished dog, Kona, and my equine companion, Mystic. The opportunity to contribute to the NHA community fills me with excitement and gratitude.
Ms. Mirielle Nixon, Teacher
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Mrs. Emily Blackwell, Vice Principal Elementary
Possessing both a bachelor of science degree in psychology and a bachelor of arts degree in linguistics from the University of Georgia, Ms. Mirielle brings a diverse educational background to the table. Her experience as a tutor at UGA reflects her passion for facilitating the realization of others' full potential. When not engaged in her professional pursuits, she finds solace in the beauty of nature walks, the world of literature, musical expression through singing, and the harmonious tones of the piano keys. The prospect of joining the NHA team fills Ms. Mirielle with genuine enthusiasm and anticipation for the meaningful contributions she can make.
Mrs. Gloriana Acosta, Teacher
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Mrs. Gloriana, a graduate of California Baptist University with a degree in Visual Arts, brings a blend of creativity and special education to New Heights Academy. She started her career as an art instructor working with a local art museum in California, teaching grades pre-k - middle school. She then moved to Georgia and embarked on a career as a lead pre-k teacher. While working as a pre-k teacher, Mrs. Gloriana discovered the world of ABA and wanted to learn more due to her love for working with children on the spectrum. She then pursued a career in ABA as a Registered Behavior Technician. Eager to get back in the classroom, Mrs. Gloriana is excited to merge her artistic background with her newfound expertise in special education in the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys creating art, visiting the beach, attending car shows with her husband, and spending time with her four cats. gloriana@newheightsacademyga.org
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Ms. Emma Holbrook, Teacher
Emma Holbrook graduated from Lee University with her bachelor of arts in psychology in 2023. Post graduation, she pursued her certificate as a Registered Behavior Technician and worked at a behavioral clinic in Marietta. She started working as an RBT at New Heights Academy and in March of 2024 was promoted to teacher for her special connection to the students and her dedication. Emma has an enormous heart for children, especially those with special needs, and feels so blessed to be able to work alongside a supportive team to care for and teach the students at NHA. Outside of work, Emma enjoys artistic endeavors in painting and music as well as spending time with her family. emma@newheightsacademyga.org
Ms. Tiffany Broderick, Teacher
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Ms. Tiffany, a graduate of Strayer University with a bachelor’s degree, brings a passion for children and teaching to NHA. She is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree. She comes from a educational background with 7 years of experience. Having been the Director of a center, she is eager to get back into the classroom. She believes teaching young minds is her blessed calling. She absolutely adores working with children. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Tiffany is a mom to two kiddos. Her favorite place to be is on a beach. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends. As well as running her small business, which indulges in her love for crafting.
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Mrs. Tara graduated from Sacred Heart University with a bachelor's degree in English and a concentration in elementary education. She has spent several years working with special needs children and adults in early intervention, school, and vocational settings.
Tara finds immense joy in teaching and is excited to bring her skills and creativity to New Heights, where she can fully embrace her love for education. She enjoys incorporating music, arts, and creativity into her teaching approach to create an engaging learning environment.
Outside of work, Tara enjoys singing with her barbershop show choir, spending time with her beloved pets, reading, and crafting, especially crocheting.
Ms. Gabrielle Davis, Teacher Assistant/RBT
Mrs. Tara giarrusso, Long-Term Substitute Teacher
Ms. Gabrielle Davis, Teacher Assistant/RBT
Ms. Gabby's early years were spent in Perry, GA, before she began college. She enrolled at Andrew College in Cuthbert, Georgia, where she pursued her education for two years and earned her associate degree in liberal arts. Following her time at Andrew College, she embarked on a new chapter at Georgia College and State University, where she achieved her bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in creative arts therapy. Faith is a central part of Gabby's life, guiding her through her achievements thus far. While she has accomplished some of her goals, she recognizes there's more to strive for. With faith as her compass, she is resolute in her commitment to making a difference through helping others.
Ms. Caitlynn Dale, Teacher Assistant
Ms. Sally Salcedo, Life Skills Coach
Ms. Gabrielle Davis, Teacher Assistant/RBT
Ms. Caitlynn Dale, residing in Woodstock, GA. With 12 years of experience, I've dedicated my career to working with children. My cherished moments revolve around my 3-year-old son and family. Anticipating the opportunity to collaborate with NHA families fills me with excitement. This year holds the promise of greatness.
Ms. Sally Salcedo, Life Skills Coach
Ms. Sally Salcedo, Life Skills Coach
Ms. Sally Salcedo, Life Skills Coach
Ms. Sally is a dedicated life skill coach passionate about guiding individuals toward their professional aspirations. Her coaching philosophy centers around the belief that everyone possesses the tools within themselves to thrive. She helps students overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, and create fulfilling skills through personalized guidance, actionable strategies, and unwavering encouragement.
Mr. Louis Gesualdi, MAcc, Co-Founder & CFO
Mr. Gesualdi possesses extensive expertise in the fields of finance and accounting. He holds a bachelor of business administration degree in accounting, a bachelor of science degree in information technology, and a master of accountancy degree. Alongside his dedication to his son's development, he is also deeply committed to the well-being of all the children under our care.
Mrs. Katherine Lynn, School Office Administrator
Mrs. Katherine Lynn, an American-Aussie with a heartfelt passion for supporting families and children. A proud mother of two, Katherine holds a BA in Psychology and is preparing to embark on her master’s journey. With over 12 years of experience working with families and children in the exceptional community, along with her earlier experience in daycare settings, she brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her role. As the School Office Administrator at New Heights Academy, Katherine is eager to collaborate with our wonderful families and provide day-to-day administrative support. She’s thrilled to be part of this incredible community and looks forward to making a positive impact!
Mrs. Brandie, School Front Desk Coordinator
Brandie-Angel Bryant joins New Heights Academy as our Front Desk Coordinator, bringing her warmth, organization, and dedication to the role. With a background in office management and stretch therapy, Brandie-Angel has a deep understanding of wellness and personalized care. As a mom of three, she knows the value of creating a welcoming and supportive environment for families. Her goal is to ensure every student and visitor feels at home from the moment they walk through the doors. In addition to managing the front desk, she will be assisting with building operations and administrative tasks, ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. Her commitment to excellence makes her an invaluable part of the New Heights Academy team.
Ms. Taylor, Art Teacher
Taylor holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Georgia and is currently pursuing a second degree in Art History, with a focus on Classics. She began her career as a preschool teacher, where she spent two years before exploring various other fields. Taylor discovered her passion for art while working as a museum guide, which ultimately inspired her to pursue a PhD in the subject. Her diverse background in teaching, psychology, and art allows her to integrate both scientific and creative approaches in the classroom. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking weekly, and cherishing moments with her dog, Odin, and bunny, Apollo. She is excited to bring her passion for education, science, and art to New Heights as the Art and Science teacher.
Ms. Logan, Music Teacher
Hailing from Nevada, MO, Ms. Logan is a Music Therapist who holds Board Certification (MT-BC). She earned her bachelors degree in music therapy from Appalachian State University in 2022, having fulfilled the mandatory coursework and a 7-month internship within the Fulton County School District. Embracing a person-first approach, she conducts her practice. Outside of her professional commitments, she finds pleasure in gardening and immersing herself in science-fiction literature.
Coach Murphy, P.E. Teacher
Coach Murphy, a distinguished figure, holds the roles of Co-Founder and Former Athletic Director at A+ Sports Performance Center (Alpharetta, GA) and also the positions of Founder and former Visionary at TYGTAL Sports Performance (Roswell, GA). During his time as a student-athlete at the University of Delaware, Murphy accomplished the attainment of a bachelor of science degree in exercise science, specializing in strength and conditioning.